SmartPath gets Smarter, Better

Honeywell (Chalet A6) has launched a new generation of its SmartPath GBAS (ground-based augmentation system) following FAA approval. Since 2009 SmartPath has been the only FAA-certified system of its kind, and it is being installed at a growing number of airports, both in the U.S. and overseas. The latest iteration, known as Block II, is a software-only upgrade that adds greater flexibility and increased capacity.

SmartPath is a landing and approach navigation system that can replace traditional instrument landing systems. A single installation at an airport can simultaneously handle multiple landings of suitably equipped aircraft to multiple runways, and control approaches and departures from any direction. The system not only reduces the cost of ground equipment and its maintenance, but also enables a number of functions that can significantly reduce aircraft separation requirements and increase airport efficiency.

Block II allows greater flexibility in optimizing the system to meet prevailing local conditions. The technology is most valuable in areas where GPS signals can be degraded by unique weather conditions, an issue encountered predominantly in low latitudes. The new system also increases the number of approach procedures that can be covered by one station to 48 from 26.

Complementing the software upgrade is a new Block II-S hardware option that adds SBAS (satellite-based augmentation system) capability, improving the performance of GBAS by using a regional view to mitigate GPS errors that are not detected at airport level.

Another option that complements SmartPath is Honeywell’s new IMMR (integrated multi-mode receiver), an all-digital radio that integrates multiple navigation functions into a single unit, reducing size and weight by around 50 percent. o

Honeywell and Denel to Explore Sub-Saharan Africa

Last month Honeywell signed a strategic agreement with Denel Aviation of South Africa to offer retrofit and upgrade programs to military aircraft and helicopters, and to the commercial rotary-wing sector in southern Africa. Over 1,500 platforms are operational in the region and could benefit from the combined capabilities of the two companies, based on Honeywell’s extensive range of avionics, satellite communications and mechanical products.